Step 1
The first hours
Keep the film or bandage on for at least 2-4 hours. Don't remove it early. Your tattoo is an open wound and needs initial protection.
Aftercare
Tattoo aftercare.
A great tattoo is 50% the artist's work and 50% the client's care. Follow this step-by-step guide for the best healing and to keep your piece flawless for years.
Step 2
First wash
Wash with warm water and unscented neutral soap using only clean hands. No sponges, no cloths. Pat dry with a clean paper towel using gentle dabs, never rubbing.
Step 3
Daily moisturizing
Apply a thin layer of healing ointment (Bepanthen, Hustle Butter, or similar) 2-3 times a day for the first 5-7 days. Too much cream suffocates the skin.
Step 4
Itching and scabs
It's normal for it to itch and form small scabs starting around day 3-5. DO NOT scratch, DO NOT pick the scabs. They'll fall off on their own. If you do, you can lose color and ruin the design.
Step 5
What to avoid for the first 2 weeks
No direct sun, no pool, no ocean, no sauna, no long baths in the tub, no intense gym, no tight clothing that rubs, no pets on top of the area.
Step 6
After healing
Once healed (3-4 weeks), always protect from the sun with SPF 50+. Unprotected sun exposure is the main cause of color loss and tattoo aging.
Step 7
Warning signs
Increasing redness, pus, fever, intense pain, or red lines spreading from the area: contact me immediately and consult a doctor. A properly treated infection leaves no lasting damage.
Step 8
Free touch-up
I offer a free touch-up within 60 days as long as these aftercare instructions have been followed correctly. If you have any questions, write to me.